Fidel M., 1

The child was referred from one of the health centres. He comes from a family of four, with both parents alive but mentally unstable, making it difficult to obtain a detailed medical history. The family has no stable source of income and relies on well-wishers for their basic needs. Fidel was admitted with a five-day history of not passing stool, accompanied by generalized abdominal pain and three episodes of non-bloody, non-projectile vomiting. There was also a reported history of fever and breathing difficulties. On examination, he was found to have severe dehydration, fecal impaction resulting in constipation, severe anaemia, and severe malaria. Treatment was initiated immediately.

Fidel was referred to our facility from a peripheral health center with a five-day history of constipation, abdominal pain and distension, and three episodes of non-bloody, non-projectile vomiting. He had no prior history of hospital admissions, tuberculosis, or surgeries. On examination, Fidel appeared very ill, pale, and restless. He underwent comprehensive investigations, including abdominal X-ray, ultrasound, full blood count, malaria test, blood sugar, and renal function tests. He was diagnosed with fecal impaction with rule-out intestinal obstruction, severe dehydration, severe anemia, and malaria. Fidel was treated with antibiotics (Ceftriaxone), antimalarials, analgesics, intravenous fluids for rehydration, and two whole blood transfusions. The impacted stool was manually removed during his stay. Over the course of three to four weeks in the hospital, he responded well to treatment, his condition stabilized, and he showed significant improvement. Fidel was discharged in good condition. His mother, Annah, expressed her gratitude, saying, “My son is the fifth child from our village to receive medical treatment with support from Helpster Charity. I am thankful to the organization for providing free medical care to my child.”

Fidel presented with severe dehydration, fecal impaction, severe anemia, and severe malaria, all of which posed significant risks to his health. With prompt and appropriate medical intervention, including rehydration, management of constipation, antimalarial therapy, and treatment for anemia, his immediate condition was stabilized. Immediate prognosis is good. However, given the severity of his illness at presentation and underlying social vulnerabilities, Fidel remains at high risk for complications, including recurrent infections, worsening anemia, or delayed recovery if follow-up care and adequate nutrition are not ensured after discharge.